In a 16 over match, Rainhill Under 15s secured a well-deserved 22-run victory over Newton-le-Willows Under 15’s Rams in the Wigan and District Junior Cricket League U15 Cup. Thanks in large part to Nathan Lawler’s exceptional 6 for 4, as well as the composed and steady performances with the bat from Freddie Foulkes (25*), Nathan Lawler (23) and Finnlee Millar (17), Rainhill secured a well-deserved victory.
Captain Nathan Lawler and wicket keeper Freddie Foulkes opened the batting and laid a solid foundation for Rainhill. Together, they carefully navigated the early overs, building a platform that allowed the team to post a respectable score. Following Nathan’s dismissal, Freddie continued to play with great maturity, holding the innings together and ensuring Rainhill had something to defend.
Contributions from other batters, including a quickfire 17 off 10 balls from Finnlee Millar, and a spirited effort from Mattie Ambage, who added crucial runs with positive intent, helped boost the total. The final play of the innings showcased Rainhill’s determination to maximise their score. Mackenzie Henderson, coming in to face the last ball of the innings, displayed awareness, as the ball edged past the keeper, Mackenzie ran three crucial runs, pushing Rainhill’s total up to 82 for 7 and giving them a few extra runs to defend.
Behind the stumps Freddie Foulkes was outstanding, demonstrating sharp reflexes and impeccable awareness. His quick stumping off Nathan Lawler’s bowling was a game-changing moment. As Dylan Yates stepped out of his crease, Nathan was aware and bowled a shorter and wider ball, and Freddie’s lightning-fast reaction and precise glovework saw him whip the bails off in an instant, securing a crucial dismissal. This stumping was a pivotal turning point in the match, breaking a threatening partnership and significantly disrupting Newton-le-Willows’ chase.
Nathan Lawler’s outstanding spell of 6 for 4 in four overs, kept Newton-le-Willows under pressure throughout their innings. The disciplined bowling from Finnlee Millar and Jack Tyms, at the beginning of Newton’s innings, set the tone early on and ensured Rainhill remained in control.
Rainhill’s fielding was also a highlight, with two crucial catches by Mattie Ambage including a caught and bowled, and energetic efforts from young Sam Du Plessis, who, despite being just 11 years old and playing up two age groups, made valuable contributions in the field.
Overall, Rainhill’s victory was a testament to their combined team effort. The team’s determination to extract every possible run and their disciplined fielding and bowling made all the difference, securing them a well-earned win in the WDJCL U15 Cup semi final.
